
"Realizing it makes me think I need to be more aware and study harder." (Karina)
Karina of 'aespa' has clarified the controversy surrounding a photo that raised political implications.
Karina appeared on the YouTube channel 'Fairy Jae-hyung', which was released on the 6th. Singer Jung Jae-hyung uploaded a video titled, "Finally Here, the Youngest Guest."
The two discussed a variety of topics, including Karina's preparation for her debut as a singer, behind-the-scenes experiences from the entertainment show 'SynchroU', and episodes on stage.
She also mentioned the controversy surrounding her. Karina stated, "There has been a recent issue, and I hope that everyone around me can live without worries." This was a subtle reference to an incident that led to misunderstandings regarding her support for a specific political party just before the presidential election. She shared a photo on social media wearing a red jumper with the number 2 on it.
Criticism arose for being careless during the election period. "There was absolutely no (political) intention, and I wanted to express that. I felt sorry because fans were really worried," she explained.
She emphasized that there were no political intentions at all. "I wanted to sincerely apologize because I caused a lot of concern for our fans and many others," she added.
Karina described the situation at the time, saying, "I went out with the staff and it was a bit chilly. So, I bought an outerwear and posted (the photo) to communicate with fans."
Afterward, she received a request from her agency to delete the post. "I felt like I was ignorant. Even being overseas, it was something I should have known," she reflected.
Karina expressed, "Since I did bring up a conversation topic, it’s right for me to bear the consequences. However, it was very hard to see my members being affected by it."
Jung Jae-hyung nodded in agreement with Karina's comments, comforting her by saying, "Since you talked about it now, I think fans will understand that your concern for them is real."
Meanwhile, aespa, of which Karina is a member, made a comeback with their new single 'Dirty Work' on the 27th of last month.
<Image source: 'Fairy Jae-hyung' YouTube, Karina SNS capture>
